The Ashworth Affair — Printable guest invitation with host customisation notes
Your kit includes a printable invitation for each guest, pre-written in period style. The host fills in the bracketed details before printing. Each invitation is identical — guests do not receive their character assignments until the evening itself.
Print InvitationLady Constance Ashworth
requests the pleasure of your company
at Ashworth Manor
for a weekend gathering of friends
in the company of Lord Edmund Ashworth
and a select number of distinguished guests.
Dinner will be served at eight o'clock.
An entertainment of an unusual nature
has been arranged for the evening.
Guests are advised to arrive with
an open mind and a sharp eye.
Not everything at Ashworth Manor
is quite as it appears.
Replace the bracketed fields with your actual details: the date of your party, your home address (or venue), your contact details for RSVPs, and your name as host. Everything else is pre-written and ready to print.
Print on cream or ivory card stock (120gsm or heavier) for the best effect. A5 size works well for a single-fold card. For a premium finish, print on parchment-effect paper — most office supply stores carry it.
Do not tell guests it is a murder mystery in the invitation — the phrase "an entertainment of an unusual nature" is intentionally vague. The surprise of discovering the format on arrival is part of the experience.
The 1920s dress code is optional but strongly recommended — it transforms the atmosphere entirely. If some guests are reluctant, suggest "smart evening wear" as an alternative. Even a few guests in period costume makes a significant difference.
Your kit also includes a digital version of this invitation formatted for email or WhatsApp. The text is identical — simply copy and paste, replacing the bracketed fields. Add a period-appropriate image from the assets folder for visual impact.
Do not include character assignments with the invitation. Assign characters on the evening itself, either by placing sealed envelopes at each place setting or by handing booklets out as guests arrive. The mystery of which character you will play is part of the anticipation.
Your full kit includes three invitation variants for different communication styles. All three are pre-written and ready to customise.
The version shown above — a traditional printed invitation in period style, suitable for posting or handing to guests in person. Designed for A5 card stock.
A plain-text version formatted for email or messaging apps. Maintains the period voice while being practical for digital distribution. Includes a suggested subject line.
A shorter, more mysterious version that reveals even less — ideal for building anticipation. Includes only the date, time, dress code, and the line: "Come prepared to solve a crime."
A brief reminder note to send 48 hours before the party, reminding guests of the dress code and hinting that they should "arrive with their wits about them." Keeps the atmosphere building in the days before the event.